They share land borders with Morocco and they are the only way to enter the EU from Africa without crossing the Mediterranean. They are therefore within the European Union and are able to apply for international protection under the Spanish asylum system. Once in Ceuta or Melilla, migrants are taken to Temporary Stay Centers (CETIs) where they submit their asylum application. As they are part of Spain, Ceuta and Melilla form part of the Schengen area – which guarantees freedom of movement. Migrants from sub-Saharan Africa are regularly stopped by Moroccan authorities if they try to approach the regular border crossing points.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 04, 2019 09:45 UTC